H1N1 (also called “swine flu”) is a new influenza virus, first detected in the United States in April 2009.  H1N1 is sometimes referred to as “swine flu” because many of the genes in the new virus are similar to influenza viruses that normally occur in pigs.  The new virus is actually very different from the virus that is found in pigs, as further study has shown.  The H1N1 virus has been widespread in the United States in the fall of 2009 and is expected to be prevalent throughout the winter months.  H1N1 is distinct from regular seasonal flu and is caused by a different virus.

H1N1 flu is spread the same way that regular seasonal flu spreads, mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people who already have the flu.  People may also become infected by touching a surface or object (such as doorknobs, telephones, computer keyboards, elevator buttons, countertops, and other surfaces touched by others) that has flu viruses on it and then touching their eyes, mouth, or nose.  H1N1 virus is not spread by food (you cannot get the flu from eating pork or pork products).  People infected with either seasonal flu or H1N1 flu can infect others from 1 day before getting sick to 5 to 7 days after.

Symptoms of H1N1 include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue.  Most people have recovered from H1N1 flu without needing medical treatment, but hospitalizations and deaths have occurred from infection with this virus. 

There are several steps one can take to prevent or reduce the likelihood of getting the flu.  There is a vaccine for seasonal flu, as well as a vaccine for H1N1 flu.  The single most important step you can take on an everyday basis is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water.  Wash for at least 15 to 20 seconds (sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice).  If soap and water are not conveniently located, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.  Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, as this is how germs enter your body.  Try to avoid contact with people who have the flu.

If you are sick with the flu, stay home at least 24 hours after your fever is gone.  Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and then throw the tissue into the trash.

For authoritative information on H1N1 flu, go to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) web site at http://www.cdc.gov/.  This site is updated frequently with current status reports.  Another site with credible information is www.flu.gov Both sites contain information for specific groups such as businesses or schools.  Any questions you may have about H1N1 flu can be answered by visiting these sites.